Find out why you should do an MBA in South Africa with information on fees, scholarships, and graduate opportunities
Tue Mar 11 2025
Doing an MBA in South Africa comes with a number of advantages—not least the fact that programs here cost a fraction of those in Europe or North America.
The best business schools in South Africa tend to place strong focus on sustainable business practices, creating managers with strong leadership who are primed to drive economic growth in Africa.
Here's all you need to know about the top MBAs in South Africa.
Best MBA Programs In South Africa
According to the Eduniversal ranking, the best MBA program in South Africa can be found at the University of Stellenbosch Business School in Cape Town. It’s a triple-accredited program that has featured in the global QS and Times Higher Education rankings.
Second on the list is the University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business. It’s currently ranked 7th in the world in the Corporate Knights Better World MBA, and has previously ranked 5th in the world for value for money in the Financial Times Global MBA Ranking.
Although both of these programs are located in Cape Town, you’ll find high-quality degrees across the country. For example, there’s Wits Business School in Johannesburg, the Gordon Institute Of Business Science in Pretoria, and Nelson Mandela University Business School in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth).
MBA degree requirements in South Africa vary from university to university, but tend to have several aspects in common.
Most programs will require a bachelor’s degree (NQF Level 8) or equivalent. You’ll also need at least three years of management experience under your belt, or four years of other relevant work experience.
South African business schools will also require proficiency in English and solid test scores in entrance exams. The most commonly accepted exams are the GMAT and NMAT, but some schools may have their own tests.
You may also be required to provide a written essay detailing your reasons for applying, together with employer references. The second stage of the application process is normally an interview with the school’s admissions team.
On the face of it, tuition fees for South African MBAs are among the most affordable in the world. An MBA in South Africa Tuition can cost cost anywhere between R90,000 ($5,000) and R350,000 ($19,000). Given that an MBA in the USA can cost over $200,000, it’s easy to see why South African MBAs are generally considered good value for money.
However, it’s worth noting that many schools in South Africa charge higher tuition for international students. For instance, at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business, African students pay a total of R344,860 ($18,400) in MBA tuition. International students on the other hand pay R687,000 ($38,000). Not every school will make this distinction, but it's still something to be aware of if you’re an international student.
Of the programs on our top 10 South African MBAs list, the cheapest MBA in South Africa is the fifth-ranked Nelson Mandela University Business School, with a total tuition fee of R138,890 ($7,650). Again, this price only applies to African students, and fees are higher for international students—though the exact price isn’t stated on the school website.
MBA Scholarships In South Africa
MBA scholarships in South Africa are typically offered by private institutions. Some universities have alumni-funded scholarships available, but it’s not as common.
Given that there’s no central organization responsible for scholarships in South Africa, it’s best to do your own research at the schools you’re thinking of applying to.
For example, there is a specialized facility at the University of Cape Town called the Bertha Centre. They offer a scholarship that covers the full or partial tuition costs of the MBA program at UCT GSB.
You might also want to speak with the admissions team directly to see if there are any scholarship opportunities available at your school.
MBA Graduate Jobs In South Africa
Data on post-MBA salaries and jobs in South Africa is fairly limited. However, there are a few surveys and reports that give us some clues about the market.
A survey conducted by MBA.co.za found that the average pre-MBA salary of the 467 respondents was R297,731 ($16,400). Their current average salary was R560,285 ($31,000). That means most respondents were able to double their salary with an MBA.
The survey also found that the most common job titles of MBA graduates included director, senior manager, consultant, and general manager. This suggests that an MBA in South Africa does indeed lead to managerial level and even C-suite positions.
According to figures from PayScale, the average salary of an MBA graduate in South Africa is R847,000 ($53,000).
However, the Financial Times Global MBA Ranking 2021 reported that UCT GSB MBA graduates were earning an average salary of R2,242,086 ($123,600) - considerably higher than the other reported figures.
So although it’s difficult to pinpoint the average MBA salary in South Africa, it does seem safe to say that your salary and seniority will both increase as a result of getting one.
Should You Earn Your MBA Degree in South Africa?
There are many attractive qualities of pursuing an MBA in South Africa: unique, hands-on experience, a focus on leadership and sustainability, and the ability to tailor your degree to the improvement of the African economy. If that speaks to you, then we recommend learning more!
University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business (UCT)
Konke
Verified
9/06/2023
On Campus
New experiences and new connections
The university is a vibrant environment with a blend of cultures and languages from around the world. The lecturers are world-renowned and give their all in ensuring that the lectures are understandable and engaging. I would definitely recommend a prospective student to enjoy the UCT experience
Asive
Verified
8/04/2023
On Campus
The diversity
You can find people of every race and culture at UCT. This is especially beneficial for students from towns and rural areas. This diversity promotes self-development, foreign language study, courage, and a strong sense of moral principles. There is always academic support available, and students are given the assistance they need to succeed academically. Health care facilities are conveniently located on campus and are all easily accessible at UCT.
Phumzile
Verified
14/01/2023
Online
Great programme
The programme covers all the principles necessary to understand in order excel in your career and workplace. As a computer science graduate, the programme has better prepared me for real life. Not only with programming skills but with an in-depth understanding of the field I am in.
The campus is really beautiful, with a huge aspect of GREEN. There is literally plants everywhere which makes the place looks beautiful and shows the university cares for the environment.
All the students are super nice too!
Sharon
Verified
11/12/2022
Blended
fun
It was great fun and learning experience at the University of Cape Town. I believe it is ranked the top university of Africa because of its extra and exceptional way of learning which start from scratch.
Student
Verified
5/12/2022
On Campus
Best Experience
The greatest thing about UCT is the amount of diversity - there are people from all over Africa and usually there are exchange students and just foreigners. The fact that it is also the top university in Africa is telling.
Thuli
Verified
3/12/2022
Online
Best Short Courses
I recently complete the UCT marketing short online course in partnership with Getsmarter. I had a fantastic experience. I would recommend this to anyone. It take Up to 3 month to complete the course. There is a variety to chose from. It is great to help you advance in your career but it will not take years to complete. Great way to equip yourself in different areas and definitely worth the money you spent. Great tutors as well
Kagiso
Verified
30/11/2022
Blended
Top Notch
This is the best university ever. The students' wellbeing are their top priority. During the fire that occurred at the campus, resulting in facilities such as res and libraries badly burned. The university took it upon themselves to sent us to private accommodation where they paid for our stay. I will never forget that experience and will always be grateful for what UCT has done!
Student
Verified
30/11/2022
On Campus
Amazing Experience
I started my journey at the university of Cape Town in 2019, as a foreign students I can say it was accommodating and not even a day did I feel discriminated. It has good facilities and ranked one of the best university in South Africa. The fees are expensive though especially for foreign students
Student
Verified
17/06/2022
Online
Brilliant for FM career
The courses were interactive and the lecturer and support staff were supportive. There was a wealth of knowledge in the casework and the outcomes were realistic and relevant to the industry. The assessments were clear and unambiguous.
Lianyang
Verified
26/01/2024
On Campus
prestigious reputation
UCT is a prestigious institution known for its high academic standards, research excellence, and contributions to the global academic community. The university has a diverse and experienced faculty, many of whom are renowned experts. UCT's campus is located on the slopes of Table Mountain, offering stunning views and a picturesque environment for students to study and socialize. The school is also a hub for research and innovation. contrary to that, UCT's tuition and living costs can be a barrier for some students, and financial aid options may be limited for international students. While the campus is generally safe, certain areas around the university may have safety concerns, requiring students to be mindful of their surroundings. Some undergraduate courses at UCT may have large class sizes, which could impact individualized attention and student-faculty interaction.
Richard
Verified
6/02/2024
On Campus
Transformative community
My overall experience has been exceptional, One of the highlights of studying at UCT is the university's renowned academic reputation. The stimulating and challenging courses provided by passionate and knowledgeable professors have allowed me to expand my knowledge and explore various fields. UCT boasts a plethora of student clubs, societies, and sports teams that cater to diverse interests. This has enabled me to pursue my passion for music by joining the university's orchestra and collaborating with fellow musicians. The campus facilities are well-maintained and modern, offering state-of-the-art libraries, laboratories, and recreational spaces. The university's commitment to sustainable practices is also commendable, with initiatives such as recycling programs and eco-friendly buildings. In terms of support services, UCT has an extensive range of resources available to students. Finally, UCT's location in the vibrant city of Cape Town adds another dimension to the student experience.
Joyful
Verified
2/04/2024
On Campus
Academic excellence and student wellness
UCT is a place I feel at home. As a first year international student I thought it was going to be difficult for me to adjust to university life but this place proved me wrong. Through it's mentorship program life becomes easier as one will have someone as a mentor. This is something that made my learning easy. Travelling around the campuses and residences is easy using UCT shuttle buses. The main campus is situated just below a mountain and this provides a beautiful view of nature.
Nomthandazo
Verified
5/06/2024
On Campus
Overall experience
There's best university to be at,the location, we have awesome views and also the university of cape town has been rated as the top university in Africa and truly they deserve it, academics it might be challenging by actually worth it and its easier for one to get opportunities and also we have wide range of academic support from the school
Student
Verified
29/07/2024
Online
The tutors gives great examples
I would definitely recommend them. The classes are a great group where you are supported and you can get help whenever you are stuck.
The courses are greatly planned and you will grow into your major in no time.
Bafana Owen
Verified
11/11/2024
On Campus
Beautiful university
The university is located at a beautiful city, the city of Cape Town, which gives the university stunning views from all over the university campus. The facilities are also good. They have beautiful cafeterias and libraries. To top it off, it’s close to the beach, so after you’re done with studying for the day, you can go cool off at the beach!
Tatenda
Verified
21/11/2024
Online
Culture Diversity
UCT is a safe space, type of University, very diverse in culture and promotes inclusivity. I got to experience and see several cultures on campus and this enabled me to learn different cultures and appreciate them as well. It promotes inclusivity in that it allows students to freely express who they are , and not be judged while at it, this was through the different societies on campus, that one could freely join with no restrictions. All religions were fully accommodated, and I very much loved that. In a nutshell, like I said earlier UCT is Safe space type of University.
Tsitso
Verified
27/12/2024
Online
My experience at the university of Cape town
My time at the University of Cape Town (UCT) was both challenging and rewarding. I pursued a Short course of Commerce in Business Analytics from 2024, and the experience was transformative in many ways.
UCT's academic rigor is unparalleled. The program offered a perfect blend of theoretical concepts and practical applications, which prepared me well for the industry. The lecturers were not only experts in their fields but also highly approachable, always encouraging us to think critically and apply our knowledge to real-world scenarios.
The UCT campus is breathtaking, nestled on the slopes of Table Mountain. Beyond the stunning views, the facilities were excellent, including modern libraries, collaborative study spaces, and well-equipped computer labs. I also enjoyed participating in extracurricular activities, such as joining the Debate Society and volunteering with SHAWCO, a student-led community outreach program.
Challenges and Growth
Adapting to the workload and high expectations was initially a challenge, but it pushed me to develop better time management and problem-solving skills. The support from peers, professors, and the university’s counseling services played a significant role in helping me overcome these hurdles.
Overall Impression
My experience at UCT was life-changing. It not only provided me with a world-class education but also helped me grow personally and professionally. I would highly recommend UCT to anyone seeking a challenging yet supportive academic environment.
Looking back, I can confidently say that UCT shaped me into a more capable and resilient individual, ready to tackle the complexities of the business world.
Student
Verified
27/12/2024
On Campus
The Quality of the education
This is the best university in my opinion. I managed to achieve excellent student support which enabled me to perform at my optimal capacity as a Science student. Campus life is amazing and its quite unique with various cultures and a great diversity.
Student
Verified
29/12/2024
Blended
Culture Diversity
Its a great University that promoted culture diversity, students had the freedom of expression in culture, religion and sexuality. That diversity is what really stood out for me. In addition loved the fact that classes were recorded everyday , hence this was both a physical and online learning setup .
Student
Verified
15/02/2025
On Campus
African Psychological Ways of Knowing
UCT is a rollercoaster, and it might be uncomfortable if you are not used to the motion, the pace of the ride, and the wind that could deter the forces from moving you forward. I studied Psychology, Mathematics and Anthropology. I believe every department at UCT heavily values the (South) African approaches across all disciplines and faculties. This is particularly interesting when given a field that is largely Eurocentric and based off Western thought and ideals. Psychology studies at this university were fascinating, oftentimes creating room for many engaging and sometimes uncomfortable conversations. Towards the end, many professors began to value what new knowledge and fresh perspectives we brought to the table. Beyond the classroom, campus life was excellent. UCT is in the perfect spot of the beautiful mountain range that spans throughout Southern Suburbs and the Coastal front. Of course, it being on a mountain meant endless steps to a building with seven floors on a cold Monday morning! At least you are greeted with ample choice of hot cups of tea and coffee, along with some tasty and affordable treats. When lunchtime rolls around, it is like a scramble for the yummiest food joints and the queues could cross corners of buildings! However, when the weather is just right for the beach after a satisfying lunch, it was not far away at all. As much as the academic environment is incredibly demanding, being in such a beautiful space with the advantage UCT has of being the top university in Africa, this is still the place you want to be.